Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2️⃣ Make the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Stir until evenly mixed.
3️⃣ Make the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
4️⃣ Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Add the vinegar and mix until smooth.
5️⃣ Fill the Cupcake Liners:
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
6️⃣ Bake the Cupcakes:
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
7️⃣ Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Frosting:
Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until smooth. Add the pureed strawberries and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
8️⃣ Frost the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the strawberry cheesecake frosting. Optionally, garnish with fresh strawberry slices for an extra touch.
Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes:
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir until just combined to avoid dense cupcakes.
- Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best frosting, use fresh strawberries that are pureed well, giving you the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cupcakes to ensure they are baked through. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!
Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes:
- Moist & Flavorful: The red velvet cupcakes are soft, tender, and packed with a rich cocoa flavor that perfectly complements the creamy frosting.
- Cheesecake Frosting: The creamy strawberry cheesecake frosting is a delicious addition that makes these cupcakes extra special and irresistible.
- Vibrant & Gorgeous: The red velvet color and fresh strawberry garnish make these cupcakes a visually stunning treat.
Nutritional Benefits of Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes:
- Antioxidants from Strawberries: The fresh strawberries provide a good dose of antioxidants, which can help protect your body from oxidative stress.
- Calcium: The cream cheese and butter in the frosting add calcium, supporting strong bones and teeth.
- Moderate in Calories: While these cupcakes are indulgent, they are a reasonable choice when you’re looking for a sweet treat without going overboard.
Common Problems and Fixes:
- Cupcakes Too Dry? If your cupcakes are dry, try not to overmix the batter, as this can cause the cupcakes to become dense. Also, don’t overbake them—check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Frosting Too Runny? If your frosting is too runny, try adding more powdered sugar or chilling it for a few minutes before frosting the cupcakes.
- Too Sweet? If the frosting is too sweet, you can reduce the powdered sugar or add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
FAQ About Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes:
- Can I use frozen strawberries for the frosting?
Yes! You can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture before pureeing them. - Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes in advance and store them at room temperature for 1-2 days. Frost them just before serving for the best texture.
If you loved these Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes, be sure to subscribe or follow for more sweet and creative dessert ideas. Thanks for baking with me, and I can’t wait to share more delicious recipes with you!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Kcal: 320 kcal per cupcake
Enjoy your Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes!
They’re the perfect combination of rich flavor, creamy frosting, and a gorgeous presentation, making them the perfect treat for any occasion!
